How to Build Your Brand Story: Start with One Simple Idea
I know how challenging it can be to figure out what you want to say, let alone how to say it. I’ve worked with countless clients who feel overwhelmed by the pressure to define their brand story perfectly from the get-go. But the truth is, you don’t need to have everything figured out to begin telling your story. Building a personal brand isn’t about crafting a persona; it’s about showing up consistently and figuring it out as you go. (Sorry, I wish there were a better answer!!) You don’t need all the answers to start—what matters is that you start, even if it feels messy.
The Power of a “Throughline” Message
When I work with clients on their personal brand stories, I suggest focusing on one key message. This becomes your throughline—the ONE thing you want people to take away from your content. And then you start building from there.
For example, here’s how I’ve helped clients like Simone Landis frame their content:
Start with a theme that you’re being confronted with presently in your life (like transitioning to a new career or balancing motherhood with business goals).
Create content CONSISTENTLY around that theme, even if it’s not perfect.
Experiment with different content formats—photos, videos, captions—until you find what clicks.
What Your Throughline Message Is Not
Your throughline message is not a collection of different ideas or random thoughts strung together. It’s one idea—the single, clear message you want people to take away from your story. It’s the heart of your narrative, the thing that ties everything together and gives your story purpose.
If you sit down to write and find yourself going in a million different directions, that’s okay! You may not know your throughline message right away, and that’s perfectly fine. But by the time you reach your second draft of your story, you should have a clear idea of what it is. This is where the magic of editing comes in!
Use Your Throughline Message to Edit Your Drafts
Once you know what your throughline message is, it becomes your #1 guide for editing. As you go through your draft, ask yourself: Does this piece of information directly contribute to my throughline message? If the answer is no, cut it out. The best stories are simple and direct, and having a throughline message helps you identify what needs to stay and what can go.
If a section of your story feels like it’s going off on a tangent or doesn’t support the core message, that’s a red flag! Time to delete. Your throughline keeps your story focused, and it’s the key to ensuring your content doesn’t get lost in the weeds of unrelated ideas.
Examples of a Throughline Message
To help you understand what a throughline message looks like in practice, here are a few examples. These are simple, clear messages that tie everything together in the story.
You can start over at any age, and it's never too late to chase your dreams.
The obstacles you face don’t define you—they’re opportunities to grow stronger.
Learning to love yourself is the key to finding true happiness.
Creativity is a muscle—don’t wait for inspiration, just start creating.
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to take action in spite of it.
Next time you're watching a video or reading a story on social media, ask yourself:
Is there a throughline message to this story?
What is it?
This simple question can help you start paying closer attention to the core message behind the content you consume. As you absorb content in this way, you'll start to notice how much more engaging and memorable stories are when they are driven by a central theme and message. This practice can also help you refine your own storytelling, too!
Why Having a Throughline is Essential
Having a throughline message makes your story easier to follow, more impactful, and more memorable for your audience. It guides everything from the structure of your story to the emotions you want to evoke in your audience. When everything in your story serves that one core message, your audience will walk away with a clear understanding of who you are and what you stand for.
Remember, a focused story is a powerful story. And having a throughline message is the best way to make sure your story lands with clarity and impact.
Want to Build Your Brand Story with Support?
If you’re ready to take the next step in building your personal brand story and need some guidance along the way, I invite you to join the Personal Brand Accelerator (PBA) community.
As a PBA Community Member, you’ll get:
Direct feedback on your stories + content
Personalized coaching from me and the PBA Team
Accountability to help you stay consistent with your posts
Instant boost in engagement on your posts
Support, pep talks, and encouragement to keep you going
Access to the full Personal Brand Accelerator course (12 modules to help you build your brand!)
Access to live community calls and office hours hosted by Anna and the PBA team
Now is the time to tell your story—and the world needs to hear it. Start your free trial today and begin transforming your brand with the power of storytelling.
